What started as a simple way to repurpose old practice tennis balls has quickly grown into a meaningful tradition for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and the local community. Now in its second year, the initiative continues to transform used tennis balls into tools that provide comfort and enrichment for dogs in local shelters. 

After launching the idea a year ago, SAAC President and UT Permian Basin men's tennis player Sebastian Garcia helped bring the initiative back for another run. 

"It's honestly super refreshing to see a good thing happen again," Garcia said. "I'll be really happy if this continues beyond my time here at UTPB, knowing I left something great behind." 

Garcia teamed up with UTPB tennis players to collect balls no longer being used by the program. From there, Head Coach Chris Tolson, Sophia Crosby, and SAAC Advisor and Deputy Athletic Director/Senior Woman Administrator Sarah Ramey delivered the donation to the City of Odessa Animal Services. 

The result was another successful delivery, with the donated tennis balls providing exercise, stimulation, and comfort for dogs awaiting adoption. 

"Giving back to the community in general is a main goal for the UTPB SAAC," said Ramey. "Sebastian's idea of repurposing the tennis balls and taking them to area shelters has been met with so much gratitude that it is something we want to continue!  With several agencies in Odessa and Midland that help animals, I think it is important that we give to each of them when we are able." 

So far this school year, SAAC members have also participated in the annual Trunk or Treat at Texas Roadhouse and delivered fuzzy socks, blankets, and handwritten cards to residents at Madison Medical. 

"I'm always happy to give my time to others, especially to the community that supports our athletics," Garcia said. "If they show us love, I'm more than happy to return the favor—and I know the rest of UTPB feels the same way."